How can I eat healthy at school?

Nov 6, 2008

"What's the best thing to eat at school? There aren't a lot of healthy choices within a jungle of pizza, hamburgers, and chicken fingers at my school. Lots of my friends just go to the vending machines and get even worse food. What's the best thing to do in a situation like mine and, I'm sure, many others'?"

Chelsea, 17, Sunter, SC

If you're having trouble finding healthy foods at the school cafeteria, your best option is to pack a lunch. Encourage your parents to stock up on your favorite healthy lunch items like lean meats, whole-grain bread, and fresh fruit and vegetables. You can take the traditional approach and pack a sandwich, an apple, and a bottle of water, but why not think out of the lunchbox? Be creative — hummus with cut-up veggies and a whole-wheat pita, salad topped with mandarin oranges and slivered almonds, or how about a thermos of mom's chicken soup?

If brown bagging isn't an option for you, give your cafeteria's deli area a go. Try a turkey sandwich on whole-wheat bread with lettuce and tomato; avoid fatty condiments like mayo. You could also grab a salad with baked or grilled chicken as long as you go light on the dressing. Be sure to avoid fried foods, things high in mayo like tuna or chicken salad sandwiches, and sugary desserts. Wash it all down with water or low-fat milk and grab a piece of fruit for dessert. If you are concerned about the quality of food at your school, talk to the principal to see what can be done to get healthier choices into the cafeteria.